Q&A: New Coworking Space in Vancouver – CityHack

Q&A Feature with Kimberly Tholl, Founder of CityHack

1. Tell us a bit about yourself and CityHack. How did it get started/how does it work?

I’m the Founder of a Startup called CityHack. We launched in November 2018 and currently operate 3 coworking locations in Downtown Vancouver. Unlike traditional coworking spaces, we transform existing, under-utilized venue spaces such as hotel event spaces to create affordable shared workspaces for the digital workforce.

For under $100 a month, our members have access to upscale workspaces and venue perks such as complimentary business center use, discounted hotel bookings, and discounts on food & beverage.

I started this company because I experienced first hand how difficult it was to find affordable workspace in Vancouver. Renting a private office or a coworking desk wasn’t an affordable option in my previous corporate role. When I was downtown, I resorted to working and meeting people in coffee shops. When I saw beautiful empty spaces that weren’t being used, I thought there could be an opportunity there.

2. Where did the name CityHack come from?

We provide Vancouver residents with more affordable ways to work in our city. In a way we are not creating anything new, but rather opening up what previously exists. We are hacking the city.

3. How does CityHack provide value to the Vancouver community?

We are providing value to three stakeholders in our community: users who often can’t find affordable workspaces, venues with under-utilized space that don’t generate per square footage revenue to their fullest potential, and the city itself that struggles with persistent affordability issues.

4. Why did you choose Modo?

I chose Modo because it’s an organization that embraces the sharing economy, promotes livability in Vancouver, and is a leader in urban sustainable development. These are all values CityHack aligns with.

5. How do you plan to use Modo now and in the future?

I live on the Endowment Lands where Modo cars are easily accessible everywhere. I mostly take public transit but sometimes it can take a long time to get downtown. With a Modo car, I’m able to visit my spaces more quickly and transport equipment more easily. Instead of taking 2-way transit that takes at least an hour and a half, Modo cuts that time in half and is readily available throughout Vancouver.

6. Anything special in 2019 you want to highlight?

We are laser focused on member service and engagement in 2019. We are always listening and learning. We want to add value to our members in ways that enable and empower them. What we do at CityHack is heavily influenced by our members.